protocal

A.
The word is protocal [proh-tuh-kawl, -kol, -kohl]
-Nick T

C. Definition
–noun

1.	the customs and regulations dealing with diplomatic formality, precedence, and etiquette.
2.	an original draft, minute, or record from which a document, esp. a treaty, is prepared.

Dictionary.com - Dan W.

D.

-Jennifer Y

E.

Synonyms:

agreement, code, compact, concordat, conduct, contract, conventions, courtesy, covenant, custom, decorum, etiquette, formalities, good form, manners, obligation, order, pact, politesse, propriety, treaty

(Dictionary.com)
Antonyms: bad manners, crudeness, impropriety (answers.com)

- Amber Z.

H. Often what we do is open our house for various charity events. I don't seat according to protocol. I don't invite people because of who they are in the administration or their positions of power. The few who do come, are there because I like them.
-Sally Quinn

In this quote the word protocol is used to emphasize the way that Quinn treats everyone based on their own merit, although the social norm would be to treat them based on their status or power. She views protocol as something negative, a set of behaviors that limits a person's freedom.

Christa